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LHS IB MYP Special Educational Needs Policy

MYP Special Educational Needs Policy - Loveland High School

Special Educational Needs Policy

MYP Inclusion & Support

Policy Overview

This Special Educational Needs (SEN) Policy outlines how Loveland High School supports all students in accessing and succeeding in the MYP. Our approach is based on the belief that:

  • All students have the right to access the MYP curriculum
  • Diversity in learning needs, styles, and abilities enriches the learning community
  • With appropriate support and differentiation, all students can succeed
  • Inclusion benefits all students by creating a more understanding and supportive environment

Key Policy Highlights

Our Commitment to Inclusion

LHS believes that all students deserve access to challenging and engaging educational experiences. The MYP provides a framework that can be adapted to meet diverse learning needs while maintaining high expectations for all students.

Support Services Available

  • Special Education Services: For students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
  • 504 Plans: Accommodations for students with documented disabilities
  • English Language Development: Support for multilingual learners
  • Counseling Services: Social-emotional and mental health support
  • Academic Intervention: Tutoring, study skills, and learning strategies
  • Gifted and Talented Services: Enrichment and advanced learning opportunities

Differentiation in the Classroom

MYP teachers use various strategies to meet diverse learning needs:

  • Varied instructional approaches (visual, auditory, kinesthetic)
  • Flexible grouping and individualized pacing
  • Multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement
  • Scaffolded instruction and graduated levels of support
  • Choice in how students demonstrate learning
  • Modified assessments while maintaining MYP standards

Accommodations and Modifications

Accommodations change how students learn or demonstrate learning without changing expectations:

  • Extended time on tests and assignments
  • Preferential seating and reduced distractions
  • Use of assistive technology and tools
  • Alternative formats for materials
  • Small group or individual testing

Modifications adjust what students are expected to learn when necessary:

  • Adjusted curriculum expectations or learning goals
  • Reduced workload or simplified assignments
  • Alternative assessment methods

Collaborative Approach

Supporting students with special educational needs requires teamwork:

  • Students: Self-advocate for needs and actively participate in their learning
  • Teachers: Differentiate instruction and implement accommodations
  • Special Education Staff: Provide direct support and consultation
  • Counselors: Support social-emotional needs and transition planning
  • Parents/Guardians: Partner with school to support student success
  • Administrators: Ensure resources and professional development
📋 Documentation and Planning:

Students requiring accommodations should have current documentation (typically within 3 years) from a qualified professional. IEPs and 504 plans are reviewed annually and updated as needed. Parents and students are active participants in all planning meetings.

Personal Project Accommodations

Students with special educational needs receive appropriate support for the Personal Project:

  • Modified timelines if needed while maintaining overall expectations
  • Use of assistive technology for research and writing
  • Alternative presentation formats when appropriate
  • Additional check-ins and support from supervisors
  • Accommodations consistent with those used in regular coursework

Professional Development

LHS is committed to ongoing professional learning for staff:

  • Training on differentiation strategies and Universal Design for Learning
  • Understanding of various learning differences and disabilities
  • Effective use of assistive technology
  • Cultural competency and trauma-informed practices
  • Collaboration with special education specialists
🤝 Partnership for Success:

The most effective support happens when students, families, teachers, and specialists work together. Open communication and shared responsibility ensure that all students can access and succeed in the Middle Years Programme.

Questions About Special Educational Needs?

For questions about special educational needs support, accommodations, or services in the MYP, please contact our MYP Coordinator or your school counselor.

Tane Leach | MYP Coordinator

Contact Tane Leach